Chevrolet Bel Air 1957: The Collectors’favorite

The competition between Ford and Chevrolet for the best selling U.S. automaker became accentuated in 1954. For the year in question, Ford produced 965 882 cars and Chevrolet 1,339.921. Before launching the new Chevrolet Bel Air in 1957, many thought Ford would beat her rival for that company had just redesigned its new model. Chevrolet only had to offer a simple face lifting for the 1955 model. However, this extraordinary car had a strong personality, with discreet tail fins, an elliptical radiator grille, inspired by the Cadillac and perfectly integrated with the bumpers and numerous chromium elements. A mere beauty when we look at the two rockets on the bonnet and the stainless steel side panel on the rear wing. The public warmly welcomed the  Bel Air 1957, Chevrolet representing the most popular name of the General Motors group. The car was indeed impressive and luxurious. It was declined in 460 versions, that is 96 more than the previous year and different combinations of colors. This customization of the model greatly participated in achieving the number of 1,5 million vehicles sold and enabled to limit the difference with Ford that sold 1,627.655 in 1957.

In 1957, the Chevrolet Bel Air was proposed with 5 engines: a 6 cylinders of 3.8 liters (140hp) and 4 different V8, one of 3.8 liters (162 hp) and 3 of 4.6 liters with a power from 185 to 270 hp plus a version with the injection of 203 hp. The automatic “Powerglide” gearbox was proposed as an option for USD 200. The magnificent qualities and mechanical reliability along with superb aesthetics conquered those who could afford this car.  The inner dimensions are quite generous and the seats extremely comfortable. The windows are electric, power steering and air-conditioning were unusual options in the fifties and available here. The panoramic windshield and large rear window seem to envelope the car and make the interior so luminous.  The structure was reinforced around the cockpit.

All versions are absolutely superb: the Chevrolet Nomad (a very original 2-door station wagon); the hardtop Coupé; the Convertible; the 2-door Sedan; the Handyman (2-door station wagon); the One-Fifty (2-door Sedan); and the Hardtop Sedan (4-doors with no central pillar) which gave Chevrolet a young and sporting image to the whole range. It was also one of the greatest success for 1957. Seventeen colors were proposed with 15 different two-tone combinations. This could more than easily satisfy the happy owners of such marvels. Today the Chevrolet Bel Air 1957 is in great demand from Chevy collectors.

Chevrolet Bel Air Sport Coupé 1957.

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Chevrolet bel Air Convertible, 1957.

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Chevrolet Bel Air Sport Coupé, 1957.

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Chevrolet Bel Air 2 door Coupé, 1957.

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Chevrolet Bel Air 4-door sedan, 1957.

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Chevrolet Nomad 1957. A superb station wagon.

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The extraordinary rear of the Chevrolet Nomad 1957.

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